The author visited the school on Thursday, January 24 and inspired key stage two pupils and staff with his ‘what if?’ method of writing.

Headteacher Stephen Oldfield said the visit had been a real treat.

He said: “I have known Steve for many years and we both have an interest in writing and drama.

“I have told him that although our writing is very strong in school there are still certain areas where we can add a ‘tweak’ to really get children excited - and Steve can do just that. It was brilliant to have him in school and he has already got our more reluctant writers having a go.

“He showed the children how talent and hard work can achieve fabulous results, and his presentation was hilarious.”

Steve, from Rawtenstall, got the children to keep a giant ‘asteroid’ afloat and find out how many staff could fit inside a giant pair of pants.

He then carried out a signing session of his latest book, ‘Oliver Fibbs and the Attack of the Alien Brain’ and he will be running workshops at Stonefold in the near future.